AFC donates fire truck to Wilcox Co. fire department

Posing for a photo with the Pine Hill VFD's new tool (Source: Alabama Forestry Commission)

(Source: Alabama Forestry Commission)

(Source: Alabama Forestry Commission)

(Source: Alabama Forestry Commission)

(Source: Alabama Forestry Commission)

PINE HILL, AL (WSFA) -

The people of Wilcox County now have more protection against fires, thanks to a gift from the Alabama Forestry Commission. The AFC presented the 2002 fire engine ladder truck to the Pine Hill Volunteer Fire Department.

The truck, which originally cost around $465,000, was obtained by AFC through the Federal Excess Property Program (FEPP). The AFC will hold a presentation to hand the vehicle over to the local volunteer fire department on August 22.

AFC officials say they made the decision to donate the truck to Pine Hill's firefighters because it will help with primary emergency response coverage to the new Golden Dragon Copper Plant and the International Paper Company as well as other industries that may locate in the area.

AFC leaders say they want to raise awareness of the FEPP's importance on Alabama's VFDs. The state now boasts a total of 425 federal vehicles which have been given to 306 different VFDs. The capabilities these units bring to the communities they're used in could not be attained, AFC officials say, by relying solely on state and local funding. In total, the equipment is worth just under $12 million.

Several leaders were on hand at Friday's presentation, including a member of Rep. Terri Sewell's staff, the Pine Hill mayor and fire chief, as well as other state, local and county officials.